Learning Specialist News

Helping Your Child Settle Into Their New Classes

As the holidays draw near and preparations for the new school year begin, many children are thinking about what’s ahead, a new year level, perhaps a different teacher, new classmates and a fresh classroom. For some children, this brings excitement. For others, it can feel a little daunting or uncertain. As parents and carers, the support and reassurance you offer during this time can help make the transition smoother and more positive.

Recognise and Validate Their Feelings

Starting a new year can stir a mix of emotions: excitement, curiosity but also nerves. It helps to let your child know it’s perfectly normal to feel a bit anxious or unsure. Acknowledging their feelings (“It’s okay to feel a little nervous … lots of kids do”) can ease worries by making them feel understood and supported. 

Talk Openly And Positively

Use the holiday period to talk about what’s coming. Ask your child what they’re looking forward to, what concerns they might have, or what they wonder about. Help them imagine the positive aspects: new friends, fresh challenges, different teachers, fun opportunities. This hopeful outlook can help frame change as an adventure rather than something to dread. 

Reinstate Routines Gradually

Holidays often mean relaxed bedtimes, late mornings but as school approaches, gently shifting back towards a school-ready routine helps. Consistent bedtimes, regular meal times, morning preparation and a simple after-school plan can give them a sense of stability and boost confidence. 

Encourage Social Connections and New Friendships

A big part of feeling comfortable in a new class is about peers. If possible, help your child reconnect with familiar friends over the holidays or arrange a play-date with someone likely to be in their new class. When school starts, encourage them to be open to meeting new classmates, maybe join a  lunch club, chat at recess, or say hello at lunch break. Supportive friendships help children feel they belong. 

Be Patient and Celebrate Small Wins

Settling into a new class may take time. There might be some awkward moments, tired days or initial reluctance. That’s normal. Celebrate the little successes first new friend made, first homework done, first smile after class. Over time these small wins build confidence and a sense of belonging. 

What You Can Do This Holiday

• Talk positively about the coming school year focus on what’s exciting or new.
• Visit the school or talk about what it might be like, to make it seem familiar.
• Help your child pack or organise their school things (uniform, bag, lunchbox).
• Re-introduce a gentle school-ready routine (bedtime, mornings) before school starts.
• Encourage social connection, catch up with friends, or exchange contact info with classmates.
• Keep communication open, let your child know they can share thoughts, worries or excitement anytime.
• Watch for signs of stress or worry, and let them know adjustments take time and it’s okay to feel unsure in the beginning.

With caring encouragement, thoughtful preparation and a bit of patience, this transition can become a positive and exciting step forward for your child. This challenges show our children they can do hard things and we can have positive unexpected outcomes. 

Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season and look forward to seeing you in 2026.